So, you got that call you've been waiting for, for God knows how long. Your agent finally calls you with an audition. (or the casting director themselves, if you don't have an agent) You're so delighted. You tell everyone about it, you tweet about it, post it on facebook, maybe you even go out for a celebratory drink, aaannnnddd then you don't even prepare for it properly. Sound familiar? Or are you wondering, "what are you on about 'I don't prepare properly'. Of course I prepare properly"
The question is, do you actually know how to prepare properly? This is a common stumbling block when I speak to a lot of actors, and it's very evident, when auditioning actors, or watching back audition tapes, that there was very little preparation, or at least, no where near enough preparation done.
The problem is, having attended drama school, where they really teach you pretty much nothing about what the real world is like, actors come out thinking they're professionals. Well, here is a wake up call, YOU'RE NOT! You've been moulded, and maybe a couple bricks of a foundation have been laid out, but you are certainly nowhere near a finished article. I mean seriously, do you think Usain Bolt doesn't train everyday? do you think he doesn't practice constantly and really know the ins and out of everything. Do you think he is 100% prepared before he competes? Of course he is. Well, actors, so should you.
Training with an acting coach is essential. Go through the sides with them. Break down your script. Establish your moments, beats, subtext, and create your character. Their backstory, where they've just come from preceding the scene you're about to read. Make sure you're off book. Yes, you can hold your audition sides in your hand whilst reading, to refer to just in case you forget a line, but make sure you've memorised what you're about to read. Lastly, be confident. Make your choices and stick to them. Nothing looks worse than a nervous actor not sure what they're doing. Casting directors can tell if you're nervous, or haven't prepared properly. It's very obvious to them. A lot of the time you're reading for the house, not the role, so make sure you give them a good impression of yourself to get called in by them again.
Remember, you're a brand, and you have to market that brand in the right way. The object is to leave a casting office knowing you've done your best and knowing there shouldn't be a reason why that office doesn't call you in again. Make sure your headshot looks like you and that your reel is as up to date as possible.
Take control of your career. No one else is responsible but you. Is this your life? If it is, treat every aspect of your career in the same way you would value your life. It's step one to a long and successful career.
Till next time. Have a wonderful week ahead.
